The district has scheduled four meetings at two high schools and
two junior highs. Officials will give a presentation on how money
comes from the state budget and then how it can be used in school
districts. In addition, the presentation will include a general
overview of possible budget cuts that may take place for next
school year.

"Many of the slides include information that we shared with all
our employees: Where does the state gets its money? How much does
the state spend on education? How much do we spend on education?"
said Gerrick Monroe, assistant superintendent for business and
support services.

The meeting will cover general budget cuts that have been
identified, he said.

The district predicts it will lose 2,000 students next school
year. That comes on top of the 2,000-student enrollment drop this
year. The district expects to lose $10 million in funding because
of the loss. In addition, state lawmakers are still working out how
to make up for a possible $3.3 billion budget shortfall next year.
The district may lose as much as $70 million.

The district is still awaiting news on the federal stimulus
package and how that money can be used and when it will be
distributed.

School leaders will also ask parents to get more involved in
children's education, Monroe said.

"It's a high level budget overview as well as a request for help
and involvement in your kids' schools and your kids' work," Monroe
said.

State lawmakers last year finalized the budget in the last week
of the fiscal year. School districts are required by law to inform
certified personnel of potential job loss by April 15. Mesa
district officials said they may have to cut more than 400
certified positions in light of the budget loss.